Which of the following defines diversification in investment?

Diversification in investment refers to the practice of mixing a variety of different investments within a portfolio. This strategy is implemented primarily to manage risk. By not putting all resources into a single asset or asset class, an investor can reduce the potential negative impact that a poor performance from any one investment could have on the overall portfolio.

When a portfolio is diversified, it includes a range of asset types — such as stocks, bonds, and real estate — from various sectors and geographical areas. This variety allows for potential risks to be balanced out. For example, if one sector performs poorly, others may still perform well, helping to stabilize returns.

The other options focus on strategies that do not promote risk management through diversification. Strategies aimed exclusively at minimizing taxes or targeting high-performing assets can often lead to increased risk if those particular investments underperform or if the market changes. The focus on a single type of asset, on the other hand, concentrates risk rather than spreading it, which goes against the very principle of diversification.